Leeds United: Daniel Farke can soon call upon Kalvin Phillips 2.0 at Elland Road
Archie Gray has already highlighted the importance of the Leeds Untied academy this season as a regular starter under Daniel Farke.
From zero senior appearances prior to the season beginning to 41 appearances seven months on, Gray has made quite the impact.
The 18-year-old is just the latest in a long list of academy graduates to make himself a fan favourite at Elland Road.
Kalvin Phillips earned big-money move to Manchester City
Kalvin Phillips is the highest profile example in recent times, having helped guide Leeds into the top flight after five years as a senior regular.
A move to Manchester City followed – the less said about that the better – but United could soon have a Phillips 2.0 in their ranks.
That is if a report by talkSPORT [26 March] is anything to go by, with Ollie Pickles supposedly in line to be the next fast-tracked to the first team.
It is suggested that Premier League pair Tottenham and Newcastle United are already keeping tabs on the young midfielder.
Ollie Pickles linked with Tottenham transfer
Pickles has earned comparisons with Phillips due to his calmness in midfield and his ability to pick a pass. Remind you of anyone?
The 16-year-old is impressing for Leeds in the Under-18s Premier League and FA Youth Cup, and he is on a similar path to Gray and Phillips.
While he is highly unlikely to be used by Farke anytime soon, 2024-25 may well see him debut at senior level if Leeds do not go up.
If promotion is achieved, it may be that the Whites look to find a club for Pickles to join on loan if they feel he is truly ready to make the step up.
On the basis of this report, it goes to show that Leeds’ academy is continuing to look as strong as ever.
In other Leeds United news, Farke will be desperate for a positive update after what happened with a first-team regular on Monday (25 March).
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